Using pencil plugs, also known as pencil poppers, is a popular and effective technique for catching fish feeding on the surface. The key involves imparting an erratic, side-to-side walking action across the water's surface while managing your retrieve speed, as the retrieved speed is very important.
Understanding Pencil Plugs
Pencil plugs are elongated, topwater fishing lures designed to mimic fleeing baitfish or injured prey struggling on the surface. Their shape allows anglers to create a specific action that triggers predatory strikes.
The Core Technique: Walking the Dog
The primary method for using a pencil plug is called "walking the dog." This technique creates the signature erratic. Way. the lure moves on the water.
Here's how to do it:
- Cast Out: Make a cast to your desired target area.
- Rod Tip Down: Point your rod tip slightly down towards the water, typically towards the side you intend the lure to move first.
- Twitch and Reel: Give the rod tip a sharp, downward twitch or jerk (usually about 1-2 feet of line movement) while simultaneously taking up the resulting slack line with your reel.
- Repeat: Immediately after the first twitch and reel, repeat the action. As you twitch, the lure should dart to one side. The next twitch should make it dart to the opposite side.
- Find the Rhythm: Continue this twitch-and-reel rhythm to make the lure "walk" back and forth across the surface in a zigzag pattern.
Importance of Retrieve Speed and Action
As highlighted in the reference, the retrieved speed is very important. The speed at which you reel in slack line and the frequency/intensity of your twitches dictate the lure's action.
- Faster Retrieve/Twitches: Creates a rapid, frantic walk, mimicking fast-fleeing prey. This can be effective when fish are aggressive or in calm water.
- Slower Retrieve/Twitches: Results in a slower, wider walk, sometimes with pauses. This can be better when fish are finicky, in choppy water, or during slower feeding periods.
- Varying Speed: Don't be afraid to change your retrieve speed and the intensity of your twitches during the retrieve. This can make the lure seem more lifelike and unpredictable.
Key Factors Influencing Action
- Rod Tip Angle: A lower rod tip makes it easier to work the lure.
- Line Management: Keeping just enough tension to work the lure without pulling it straight is crucial.
- Lure Design: Different pencil plugs have slightly different balances and shapes, affecting their natural walk.
Practical Tips for Success
- Practice: Mastering the rhythm takes practice. Spend time experimenting to find the action that works best for you and the lure.
- Observe: Watch how the lure is moving on the surface. Is it walking correctly? Is the action too fast or too slow?
- Listen: Pencil poppers often have a cupped face that spits water or makes a "pop" sound with each twitch. This adds another layer of attraction.
- Target Structure: Cast near points, weed lines, rocky areas, or any structure where predatory fish might ambush prey.
By combining the classic "walk the dog" technique with careful attention to your retrieved speed and imparting an erratic. Way. of movement, you can effectively use pencil plugs to entice exciting topwater strikes.
